Optimal Mapping of Biodiversity at Arctic–Mid Ocean Ridge Sulfide Deposits

Norway has begun a conditional process to open parts of the deep sea for possible seabed mineral extraction, including areas along the Arctic Mid-Ocean Ridge (AMOR). Before any activity can take place, we need much better knowledge of the unique organisms that live on the seafloor and how they might be affected. The opening process has therefore been put on halt for 4 years, to gather more knowledge and build a strong scientific basis for assessing environmental risks. OptiMiSe aims to provide that knowledge. Building on recent pilot studies, the project maps biodiversity at sulfide deposits and background habitats along the AMOR to evaluate how resilient sulfide deposit communities are to disturbance. To do this, researchers combine several modern tools: environmental DNA (eDNA) to detect fauna living within the sediment, AI-assisted image analysis to identify large animals from underwater footage, and traditional taxonomy by experts to confirm and complement these findings. By integrating these approaches, OptiMiSe will deliver a detailed and comprehensive picture of life on the seafloor — from large animals such as corals and sponges to tiny organisms and microbes. The project will compare biodiversity across sulfide deposits and background habitats, to evaluate how unique sulfide deposit fauna is and how connected communities are among habitats. Knowing this is essential to assess extinction risk of sulfide deposit associated fauna and gain insights on whether disturbed sites can recover naturally through recolonization from adjacent areas. The project brings together leading scientists, industry partners, research vessels, underwater robots, advanced laboratories, and extensive sample collections. Working closely with national and international initiatives, OptiMiSe will provide the knowledge needed to support responsible decision-making and sustainable management of Norway’s deep-sea environments.